The Aramaic word ʼaph, represented by H638, functions as an adverb or conjunction meaning also or yea. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Its primary role is one of accession, adding a clause or detail to a preceding statement.
In the biblical narrative, H638 is used to add important information in official communications and declarations. In the book of Ezra, it is part of a royal decree from King Cyrus concerning the items taken by Nebuchadnezzar, specifying that the vessels of gold and silver must also be returned to the temple in Jerusalem (Ezra 5:14, Ezra 6:5). It is also used to describe the thoroughness of an inquiry, where officials asked the names of the leaders also to certify them in a report Ezra 5:10. In Daniel's defense, he uses the word to declare his complete innocence, stating he was blameless before God and had also done no hurt before the king Daniel 6:22.
Several related words clarify the context in which H638 is used to add information:
- H3984 mâʼn (vessel): This word for utensil or vessel is central to the decrees in Ezra. The commands specify that the gold H1722 and silver H3702 vessels taken from God's house were also to be returned Ezra 5:14.
- H7593 shᵉʼêl (ask): This verb, meaning to ask or demand, sets up the use of H638 in an official inquiry. Leaders rebuilding the temple were asked for their names also in order to certify them to the king Ezra 5:10.
- H2248 chăbûwlâh (hurt): In his defense, Daniel declares he has done no hurt before the king, using H638 to parallel this with his innocency H2136 before God Daniel 6:22.
The significance of H638 lies in its function of providing clarity and completeness in pivotal statements:
- Emphasis in Royal Decrees: In the commands issued by Persian kings, H638 is used to add crucial details, ensuring the full scope of an order is understood. For instance, the decree for the temple's restoration specifically notes that the gold and silver vessels must also be returned Ezra 6:5.
- Completeness in Testimony: Daniel uses the word to construct a comprehensive defense. By stating his innocence before God and also his lack of wrongdoing before the king, he leaves no ambiguity in his declaration Daniel 6:22.
- Thoroughness in Official Records: The word is used to show due diligence in administrative matters. When the leaders of the Jews were questioned, they made sure to ask H7593 for names also, so they could fully write H3790 a report for the king Ezra 5:10.
In summary, the Aramaic conjunction ʼaph H638 is a simple but important word for "also." Though appearing only four times, its use is consistent and impactful. It serves to add weight and specificity to royal decrees concerning the temple vessels H3984 in Ezra, and to complete a critical declaration of innocence in Daniel. The word H638 demonstrates how even minor linguistic elements are vital for ensuring the precision and legal force of the biblical narrative.
TRV